4 Best Montana National Parks (2023)

Welcome to our blog post on Montana National Parks! Montana is home to several breathtaking national parks that draw in visitors from all over the world. These parks are filled with unique wildlife, stunning landscapes, and several opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Montana is a mountainous, landlocked US state east of the Bitterroot Range of the Rocky Mountains and south of Canada. The state is situated in the Northern Rockies and Plains region in the northwestern United States.

It borders the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan to the north, the U.S. states of North Dakota and South Dakota to the east, Wyoming to the south, and Idaho to the west and southwest.

One of the most famous Montana national parks is Glacier National Park, located in the northern part of the state. This part of the state is known for its tall mountains, glaciers, and crystal-clear lakes. It’s also a place where you could find a lot of wildlife, including bears, mountain goats, and moose.

Another well-known park is Yellowstone National Park, which spreads across Montana and Wyoming. Yellowstone is known for its geothermal wonders, such as Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring, as well as its diverse wildlife, such as bison, wolves, and elk.

If you’re looking for a more distant experience, consider visiting the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. This area is one of the largest wilderness areas in the United States and is known for its pristine landscapes and backcountry trails.

Whether you’re someone that likes the hike or just looking to enjoy the great outdoors, Montana’s national parks have something for you. Below are the best Montana National Parks:

List of Montana National Parks

(1) Glacier National Park: A Jewel of the Northern Rockies

Glacier National Park is a true jewel of the Northern Rockies and is located in the northern part of Montana, United States. The park covers over 1 million acres of land and features towering mountains, pristine lakes, and an abundance of wildlife.

• If you plan on visiting Glacier National Park, it’s important to know the address and operating hours. The park’s physical address is 64 Grinnell Drive, West Glacier, MT 59936. The park is open year-round, but some facilities and roads may be closed during the winter months.

• During the peak season, which is from late May to early September, the park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The visitor center is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Please, note that parking can be limited during peak season due to the park’s popularity. It’s recommended to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and secure a parking spot. Additionally, shuttle services are available within the park to help visitors navigate and reduce traffic congestion.

Overall, Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning scenery and endless opportunities for adventure, it’s no wonder why this park attracts millions of visitors every year.

(2) Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex: A Remote and Rugged Experience

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex is a remote and rugged area in Montana that offers visitors a unique backcountry experience. It is one of the Montana National Parks with a very large land mass. The complex covers over 1 million acres of land and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, elk, and mountain goats.

• If you’re planning on visiting the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, it’s important to know the address and operating hours. The complex is located in western Montana, with multiple access points throughout the region. The physical address of the main visitor center is 200 Ranger Station Road, Hungry Horse, MT 59919.

• The operating hours of the visitor center vary depending on the time of year. During the summer season, which is from late May to early September, the visitor center is open daily from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. During the winter months, the visitor center may be closed or have limited hours, so it’s important to check ahead of time.

Please, note that the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex is a remote area and requires proper planning and preparation before visiting. The complex has limited facilities and services, so visitors should come equipped with the proper gear, food, and water. Additionally, permits are required for overnight stays in the backcountry.

Overall, the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex is a pristine and untouched wilderness area that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. If you’re up for a challenge and seeking a true backcountry adventure, this complex is definitely worth a visit.

(3) Yellowstone National Park: Geothermal Wonders and Abundant Wildlife

Yellowstone National Park is a world-renowned national park located primarily in Wyoming but also extends into Montana and Idaho. It’s known for its unique geothermal features, such as geysers and hot springs, as well as its abundant wildlife, including bears, bison, and wolves.

If you plan on visiting Yellowstone National Park, it’s important to know the address and operating hours. The park has five entrance gates, each with its own physical address:

• North Entrance: Gardiner, MT 59030
• Northeast Entrance: Cooke City, MT 59020
• East Entrance: Cody, WY 82414
• South Entrance: Jackson, WY 83001
• West Entrance: West Yellowstone, MT 59758

The park is open year-round, but some roads and facilities may be closed during the winter months. During the peak season, which is from late May to early September, the park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The visitor centers have varying operating hours, but most are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Please, note that traffic and parking in this park can be challenging during peak season due to the park’s popularity. It’s recommended to arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid crowds and secure a parking spot.

Overall, Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural wonders and wildlife. With its stunning geothermal features and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder why this park attracts millions of visitors every year.

(4) Gates of the Mountains

• 3131 Gates of the Mountains Rd., Helena, MT 59604.
• Working hours: 8 am to 8 pm.

The Gates of the Mountains is a rad little area that’s perfect for a day trip. You can take a boat tour and check out the cliffs and wildlife. It’s a chill spot to spend a lazy afternoon with your friends or family.

Outdoor Adventures in Montana National Parks

Montana national parks offer a wide range of outdoor adventures for visitors of all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely hike or a thrilling backcountry experience, there’s something for everyone in these stunning parks.

One of the most popular outdoor activities in Montana national parks is hiking. Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park both offer hundreds of miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry routes. These hikes provide opportunities to see breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and unique geological features.

Another popular activity is camping. Both Glacier and Yellowstone offer several campgrounds, ranging from primitive sites to fully-equipped RV parks. Camping provides visitors with the opportunity to immerse in nature and experience the parks during different times of the day.

For those seeking a more thrilling adventure, Montana’s national parks offer opportunities for rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and horseback riding. Glacier National Park is known for its scenic drives, including the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers stunning views of the park’s mountains and glaciers.

In addition to these activities, Montana’s national parks offer opportunities for fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and winter sports such as skiing and snowshoeing.

Overall, Montana’s national parks provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. With their stunning scenery and diverse range of activities, they’re a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true wilderness experience.

Conclusion

Montana national parks offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration, from hiking and camping to rock climbing and wildlife viewing. With their stunning scenery and unique geological features, they’re a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true wilderness experience.